Numeric Datatypes
Numeric datatypes store numbers. Most DBMS' support multiple numeric datatypes, each with a different range of numbers that can be stored in it. Obviously, the larger the supported range, the more storage space needed. In addition, some numeric datatypes support the use of decimal points (and fractional numbers) whereas others support only whole numbers. Table D.2 lists common uses for various datatypes, not all DBMS' follow the exact naming conventions and descriptions listed here.
| Datatype | Description |
|---|---|
| BIT | Single bit value, either 0 or 1, used primarily for on/off flags |
| DECIMAL (also called NUMERIC) | Fixed or floating point values with varying levels of precision |
| FLOAT (also called NUMBER) | Floating point ... |
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